Millions of people in London and the south east of England are now under a hosepipe ban, effective from 00:01 am on Thursday.
The ban has been introduced by Thames Water following weeks of hot, dry weather and multiple heatwaves, which have resulted in a significant increase in demand for water.
The restriction, which prohibits the use of water for lawns and gardens, will remain in place until further notice, with Thames Water warning that failing to comply could result in a £1,000 fine.
According to Thames Water, use is 10% above normal in the Thames Valley and the Home Counties, as well as 7% above normal in London, with the capital experiencing its longest dry spell since 2018.
The ban means that people can no longer use hosepipes, sprinklers, and pressure washers for non-essential activities, such as watering lawns or gardens, cleaning cars, or filling paddling pools or hot tubs.
However, there are some exemptions, including window cleaners, and a full list will be published on Thursday.
Some parts of London are in a drought, with demand far outstripping rainfall, according to the UK Drought Map.
Nevil Muncaster, director of strategic water resources at Thames Water, stated that the ban is necessary to protect water supplies for everyone and the environment.
He added that while there is enough water for essential use, reducing non-essential outdoor demand is crucial to keep taps flowing.
Muncaster thanked customers who have already reduced their water use, saying that their support has made a difference.
Thames Water is urging everyone to reduce non-essential water use to help maintain water supplies.
